Michigan employees who have to leave work due to the COVID-19 pandemic will qualify for unemployment benefits. For individuals that were required to leave work because of self-isolation or quarantine due to increased risk or displayed symptoms of COVID-19, having contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19, or a family care responsibility as a result of a government directive will be considered having left work involuntarily for medical reasons and laid off. Eligible individuals will have up to 28 days from the last day worked to file a claim for up to 26 weeks of benefits.

  • CARES ActUnder the federal CARES Act, signed March 27, 2020, weekly benefits for unemployed works was increased by $600 for up to 4 months and extends benefit payments from 26 to 39 weeks. Workers already in the unemployment system and eligible employees that are about to apply do not need to reapply or take any additional steps.
  • Employers of an individual covered by this subsection must seek a registration and work search waiver from the Unemployment Insurance Agency. Click here to request a waiver of the work registration.
  • Employers or employing units will not be charged for unemployment benefits if their employees become unemployed due to an executive order requiring them to close or limit operations.
  • Consider the Work Share Program if you have reduced production and need to hang on to your skilled workers and want to avoid layoffs.

Self Employed Workers: Under the federal CARES Act, unemployment benefits have been expanded to include self-employed, 1099 contractors, and low-wage workers. Those unable to work will receive $600 a week for up to 4 months. Benefits are available for up to 39 weeks. Click below for more details and to apply.

Click here to file for unemployment

Click here for more details.